Refinishing: Dining Room Table

So this journey taught me a great deal about finishing techniques. I learned my experience in hand-rubbing oils and wax did nothing to prepare me for a smooth coat of polyurethane. I am continually reminded by this project that I am but a newb to the art of finishing. I have also gained a respect for it that leads me to believe that I may, one day, have some mastered technique in a few areas of this very necessary skill.

This table has actually taken over 5 years to complete – only because of my procrastination, not because of the complexity of it. It is a particle board core covered in a walnut veneer on top and the original – perhaps white oak – veneer on the bottom. The edges are solid wood as are the legs and rails. I finished the piece with a Jacobean stain and applied a polyurethane varnish. The table’s surface has four coats applied by brush, while the legs were given a wipe-on treatment. This table has its share of mistakes (all mine), but it will continue to stand as a reminder to my earliest, major finishing job.

(that second picture shows you how nicely it holds a large cereal bowl!)